Preserving Benton County's Heritage Since 1949
Explore records, photographs, and stories from the people and places that shaped our community.
Search Our DatabaseWelcome to the Benton County Historical Society & Museum
Preserving the stories, artifacts, and heritage of Benton County, Minnesota since 1949.
Upcoming Event
Stories Among the Stones: A Lantern Tour of the Benton County Cemetery — Part II
October 15, 2026 • 5:30 PM • Benton County Cemetery
Join us for Part II of our popular lantern tour of the Benton County Cemetery — uncovering stories of those who came before us, including victims of the 1886 Cyclone and early settlers. Post-tour social hour with refreshments and a viewing of our authentic 1880s funeral coach.
Sauk Rapids, Benton Co., Minn.
📅 Today in History
United States
• 1849 Elizabeth Blackwell became first woman in US to receive medical degree
• 1919 First Distinguished Service Medal awarded to a woman
Minnesota
• Wild rice became Minnesota’s state grain in 1977.
• The morel became Minnesota’s state mushroom in 1984.
Benton County
• The first Benton County board meeting was held at the residence of Jeremiah Russell.
• Benton was one of only three original Minnesota counties officially opened to settlers.
📷 Picture of the Day
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Proud Community Partners
